What does it mean if I have sensitive teeth?

If you are one of the many Anchorage, AK residents considering visiting a dentist at Anchorage Dental Arts, LLC for treatment of your sensitive teeth, you are not alone. Tooth sensitivity is an incredibly common dental complaint and it affects millions of American each and every year. Learn more about this common condition and what you can do to treat it here.

What are Sensitive Teeth?

If you have "sensitive teeth," this means that you experience tooth pain when your teeth come into contact with hold or cold foods or drinks or when your teeth are exposed to cold air. The pain is generally quick and sharp, and it often leads people to avoid eating and drinking foods and beverages that are too hot or too cold altogether.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity can be caused by a number of factors, especially when the outer enamel of the tooth is broken or worn away, allowing the tooth's sensitive roots to be exposed. This can happen as the result of a cracked tooth, a loose filling or a poorly performed dental procedure. It can result from excessive tooth whitening, which can wear away at your tooth enamel, or from brushing too vigorously, which can push your gums out of place, exposing your tooth roots. Tooth grinding, gum disease and age can all play a factor as well.

What Treatments are Available for Sensitive Teeth?

While many people choose to simply ignore their tooth sensitivity and avoid foods and beverages that cause it, the good news is that you certainly don't have to live with the pain if you don't want to. Your Anchorage, AK dentist can recommend several easy and effective at-home treatments, including switching to a special toothpaste for sensitive teeth, switching to a softer toothbrush and brushing less vigorously. You can also avoid highly acidic foods and switch to a mouthwash that contains fluoride, as this can help build up your tooth enamel.

If your tooth sensitivity is caused be a dental problem, such as a loose filling, a receding gum line, a cracked tooth or gum disease, your dentist at Anchorage Dental Arts, LLC in Anchorage, AK can treat these as well, restoring your mouth to optimal health once again.

If you notice a sharp pain whenever you eat or drink foods or beverages that are too hot or too cold, you may be suffering from sensitive teeth as well. Try the at-home treatments listed above first, and if they don't help, be sure to call Anchorage Dental Arts, LLC in Anchorage, AK to discuss further treatment options with one of our qualified dentists. Some of the best foods in life are meant to be enjoyed hot or cold--enjoy them!